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          NEWS IN BRIEF

          China willing to begin trade talks with US, but sets several riders

          China willing to begin trade talks with US, but sets several riders

          China is ready to restart trade talks with the US, demanding respect, a consistent trade policy, and attention to its concerns on sanctions and Taiwan. Beijing seeks a lead negotiator with Trump's full support. This comes after a tariff hike by the US following China's block on Boeing purchases. China also condemned VP Vance's remarks about "Chinese peasants" as ignorant.

          BluSmart users stranded as firm suspends ride-hailing operations: Report

          BluSmart users stranded as firm suspends ride-hailing operations: Report

          BluSmart is experiencing widespread booking issues across Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, and Mumbai due to its strategic shift to integrate its EV fleet with Uber's platform. This transition follows financial difficulties, including high cash burn rates and regulatory action against Gensol Engineering, linked to BluSmart's co-founder. The company has already scaled down its services significantly amid ongoing scrutiny and financial instability.

          Trump’s tariff blitz on China may have an unexpected winner: India

          Trump’s tariff blitz on China may have an unexpected winner: India

          Amidst the trade tensions between the US and China, India emerges as a key player. Companies like Apple are shifting production to India. This shift is due to tariffs and India's conciliatory trade stance. The Indian government is providing incentives to boost manufacturing. While challenges remain, India is well-positioned to benefit from the global supply chain shifts.

          National Herald case: Kharge accuses BJP of 'working against law'

          National Herald case: Kharge accuses BJP of 'working against law'

          Mallikarjun Kharge criticized the ED's chargesheet against Sonia and Rahul Gandhi in the National Herald case, accusing the BJP of political vendetta and misuse of law. Congress plans nationwide protests, alleging the chargesheet is a diversion from economic issues. BJP leaders dismiss the allegations, asserting the law will take its course and accusing Congress of corruption and subservience to the Gandhi family.

          'Harvard a joke': Trump rants against 'woke birdbrains' teaching 'hate'

          'Harvard a joke': Trump rants against 'woke birdbrains' teaching 'hate'

          Donald Trump has once again targeted Harvard University. He termed it a 'joke' and unworthy of federal funds. Trump criticized Harvard's hiring choices. He mentioned Bill de Blasio and Lori Lightfoot. Trump accused the university of employing 'woke' and 'radical left' individuals. He also referenced the plagiarism allegations against Harvard's president.

          Russian glide bombs, artillery strike Ukrainian city, killing one

          Russian glide bombs, artillery strike Ukrainian city, killing one

          Russian forces attacked Kherson with glide bombs and artillery, resulting in casualties. Oleksandr Prokudin reported the deliberate tactic to hinder rescue efforts. The attack damaged infrastructure. Earlier, Sumy was hit by Russian missiles, causing numerous deaths and injuries. Russia claimed the Sumy strike targeted military officers. Ceasefire talks are stalled, with both sides accusing each other of violations.

          Waqf Act row: Will Muslims be allowed to be part of Hindu trusts? SC asks Centre

          Waqf Act row: Will Muslims be allowed to be part of Hindu trusts? SC asks Centre

          The Supreme Court questioned the Centre on potentially allowing Muslims in Hindu religious trusts during a hearing on petitions challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025. Concerns were raised about 'waqf by user' and the Act's implications on long-standing Islamic practices. The court is considering whether to hear the matter or refer it to a high court, with petitioners arguing the Act's provisions are unconstitutional.

          SC rejects staying Waqf law, seeks Centre's reply on pleas

          SC rejects staying Waqf law, seeks Centre's reply on pleas

          The Supreme Court addressed petitions challenging the Waqf (Amendment) Act, 2025, raising concerns about the removal of 'waqf by user' and the inclusion of non-Muslim members in Waqf boards. The court questioned the practicality of requiring registered deeds for old mosques and sought clarification from the Centre on non-Muslim representation.

          Israel says no humanitarian aid will enter Gaza

          Israel says no humanitarian aid will enter Gaza

          Israel said Wednesday it would keep blocking humanitarian aid from entering Gaza, where a relentless military offensive has turned the Palestinian territory into a "mass grave", a medical charity reported. "Gaza has been turned into a mass grave of Palestinians and those coming to their assistance," said MSF coordinator Amande Bazerolle.

          Silkyara tunnel nears completion; CM Dhami recalls 2023 rescue

          Silkyara tunnel nears completion; CM Dhami recalls 2023 rescue

          Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the Silkyara Tunnel breakthrough ceremony. The 4.531 km tunnel cost Rs 853 crore. It will shorten the distance between Gangotri and Yamunotri. The event recalled the 2023 worker rescue. Dhami thanked rescue teams and acknowledged PM Modi's guidance. He also participated in the Baba Boukhnag Temple consecration.

          Why are top Indian grandmasters struggling at Freestyle Chess?

          Why are top Indian grandmasters struggling at Freestyle Chess?

          Indian chess fans face disappointment as their grandmasters struggle in the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam. Despite Arjun Erigaisi's quarterfinal appearance, Gukesh Dommaraju, Vidit Gujrathi, and Rameshbabu Praggnanandhaa failed to advance. Coach Srinath Narayanan believes it's too early to judge, citing the high level of competition and the need for adaptation to the format.

          CM Mamata calls BJP 'anti-Muslim', says it 'played trick' to pass Waqf law

          CM Mamata calls BJP 'anti-Muslim', says it 'played trick' to pass Waqf law

          West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee has strongly criticised the BJP-led central government over the new Waqf law, alleging that the bill was passed using a "trick" without proper constitutional amendment. She accused the BJP of attempting to polarize Bengal and raised concerns about the prohibition of fish and meat in Bengali areas of Delhi.

          9-member SIT formed to probe violence cases during Bengal protest

          9-member SIT formed to probe violence cases during Bengal protest

          West Bengal police formed a SIT to probe violence during Waqf Act protests in Jangipur. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee alleged the violence was pre-planned, accusing the BSF, central agencies, and BJP of inciting communal tensions and facilitating cross-border influx. She urged PM Modi to reconsider the Waqf Act and control Amit Shah, accusing him of harming the nation for political gain.

          Iran's president accepts resignation of 2015 nuclear deal figure

          Iran's president accepts resignation of 2015 nuclear deal figure

          Amidst escalating tensions over Iran's nuclear program, President Masoud Pezeshkian accepted the resignation of Mohammad Javad Zarif, a key negotiator in the 2015 nuclear deal. This development coincides with the arrival of IAEA chief Rafael Mariano Grossi in Tehran for crucial access negotiations. As Iran prepares for a second round of talks with the US.

          Who is Tiffany Fong who refused to have Musk's baby?

          Who is Tiffany Fong who refused to have Musk's baby?

          Crypto journalist Tiffany Fong found herself at the center of bizarre rumors, including speculation about a pregnancy with Elon Musk's child, which she denied. A Wall Street Journal report revealed Musk had messaged Fong about having his child, a proposition she declined. Subsequently, Musk unfollowed her on X, leading to a decline in her online engagement and income.

          Under scanner: Delhi hospitals struggle without scans or specialists

          Under scanner: Delhi hospitals struggle without scans or specialists

          Delhi hospitals face a radiodiagnosis crisis. Many lack CT and MRI scans. Some ultrasound machines are unused due to radiologist shortages. Emergency ultrasound services are unavailable at night. An RTI query revealed these deficiencies. A committee confirmed the absence of CT scans, even for accident victims. The situation demands immediate government intervention to improve healthcare infrastructure and staffing.

          'Sonia Gandhi's life is in public domain, an attempt to tarnish her image': Pilot on ED chargesheet

          'Sonia Gandhi's life is in public domain, an attempt to tarnish her image': Pilot on ED chargesheet

          Congress leaders have strongly criticized the ED's chargesheet against Rahul and Sonia Gandhi in the National Herald case, alleging it's a politically motivated attempt by the BJP to tarnish their image. Sachin Pilot asserted the ED and CBI are being misused as political tools, while Supriya Shrinate accused Prime Minister Modi of vendetta politics.

          Maldives bars Israeli passport holders over Gaza war

          Maldives bars Israeli passport holders over Gaza war

          The Maldives has officially banned Israeli passport holders from entering the country, a decision formalized by President Mohamed Muizzu this week. This action, prompted by the ongoing conflict in Gaza, reflects the government's condemnation of Israel's actions against Palestinians. While the ban's impact on dual nationals remains unclear, it underscores the Maldives' stance as a predominantly Sunni Muslim nation.

          Delhi's Dwarka court receives bomb threat via email

          Delhi's Dwarka court receives bomb threat via email

          The Dwarka court complex in Delhi was evacuated on Wednesday morning following a bomb threat received via email. Authorities initiated a comprehensive search operation, deploying dog and bomb detection squads. The threatening email, received on Tuesday night, prompted a police investigation to identify the source. As of now, nothing suspicious has been discovered, but the investigation is ongoing.

          Type 5 diabetes is the new threat emerging in malnourished kids

          Type 5 diabetes is the new threat emerging in malnourished kids

          The International Diabetes Federation has recognised Type 5 diabetes. It affects lean, malnourished young adults, mainly in Asia and Africa. This diabetes results from chronic undernutrition. It was first noted decades ago but often misdiagnosed. Symptoms include fatigue, weight loss, and stunted growth. The IDF is launching a working group to address this overlooked condition.

          France minister defiant as more prison guards 'intimidated'

          France minister defiant as more prison guards 'intimidated'

          France's justice minister was defiant Wednesday after assailants targeted cars and a building lobby linked to prison staff overnight, the latest such actions since the weekend. Early on Wednesday, assailants set fire to three cars, including one belonging to a prison guard, in the southern town of Tarascon, its prosecutor said.

          Yogi on Bengal violence: Learn from UP, ‘lathi’ only treatment for rioters

          Yogi on Bengal violence: Learn from UP, ‘lathi’ only treatment for rioters

          Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath criticized West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee regarding the violence in Murshidabad, stating that Bengal is burning while she remains silent and calls rioters messengers of peace. He accused her of enabling communal unrest under the guise of secularism and lauded the judiciary for deploying central forces to protect minority Hindu communities in Bengal.

          Xi makes a case for free trade, presenting China as a source of 'stability and certainty'

          Xi makes a case for free trade, presenting China as a source of 'stability and certainty'

          Xi Jinping is advocating for free trade in Southeast Asia, portraying China as a source of stability. Welcomed in Vietnam and later in Malaysia, Xi emphasized opposing unilateral actions and maintaining global supply chains. Agreements were signed with Vietnam, including railway projects and increased agricultural exports. He will end his tour with a stop in Cambodia.

          Trump vs Harvard: What's at stake and why it could change US forever

          Trump vs Harvard: What's at stake and why it could change US forever

          A high-stakes constitutional standoff has emerged between Harvard University and the Trump administration over federal demands for ideological conformity. Harvard refuses to yield, citing threats to academic freedom, leading to a $2.2 billion funding freeze. This conflict could redefine the relationship between the government and universities, impacting research, jobs, and the future of free inquiry.

          WHO countries strike landmark agreement on tackling future pandemics

          WHO countries strike landmark agreement on tackling future pandemics

          Nations reach a historic agreement in Geneva to combat future pandemics. The accord addresses shortcomings exposed by Covid-19. It focuses on pathogen data sharing and technology transfer. Article 11 was a point of contention. The World Health Organization will present the final text for approval next month. The US absence and potential tariffs cast a shadow.

          Canada party leaders hold high-stakes debate two weeks from vote

          Canada party leaders hold high-stakes debate two weeks from vote

          Canada's political landscape is set for a pivotal debate as Prime Minister Mark Carney and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre clash ahead of the April 28 election. With polls indicating a tightening two-party race, Carney's French language skills will be tested, particularly in Quebec, while Poilievre aims to broaden his appeal beyond traditional Conservative strongholds.

          'Bhai ka badla liya maine': Cafe owner shot dead in Nagpur in bloody gang revenge

          'Bhai ka badla liya maine': Cafe owner shot dead in Nagpur in bloody gang revenge

          In Nagpur, Avinash Bhusari, a cafe owner, was murdered in a gang-related shooting. The incident occurred early Tuesday near Ram Nagar. Assailants, seeking revenge for a cousin's death, fired multiple shots. Police have arrested Siddhu Bharadwaj and Aakash Tembre. The murder is linked to an ongoing feud between the Sheikhu Khan and Hiranwar gangs.

          Pope leaves faithful guessing over Easter appearances

          Pope leaves faithful guessing over Easter appearances

          Despite recent hospitalization for pneumonia, Pope Francis, 88, intends to participate in Easter celebrations. Although advised to rest, he made surprise appearances, including Palm Sunday greetings. The Vatican confirmed the traditional "Urbi et Orbi" blessing. Uncertainty remains regarding his attendance at other Holy Week events, including the Way of the Cross.

          Watch: Preity Zinta breaks the internet with wild celebration

          Watch: Preity Zinta breaks the internet with wild celebration

          Preity Zinta's exuberant celebration became an instant internet sensation after Punjab Kings achieved a historic upset, defending a meager total of 111 against Kolkata Knight Riders. Her unrestrained joy, captured on camera, resonated with fans as PBKS bowlers orchestrated a remarkable turnaround. This victory marked the lowest total ever defended in IPL history, surpassing Chennai Super Kings' previous record.

          Maharashtra govt announces Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Award 2023–24

          Maharashtra govt announces Shiv Chhatrapati Sports Award 2023–24

          The Shiv Chhatrapati State Sports Awards for 2023-24 were announced, honoring 89 individuals including Shakuntala Khatavkar with the Lifetime Achievement Award. Paralympic medalist Sachin Khilari, archery champions Aditi Swami and Ojas Deotale, and cricketers Shivam Dube, Ruturaj Gaikwad, and Yashasvi Jaiswal will receive Direct Awards. The ceremony will be held on April 18 in Pune, with dignitaries presenting the awards.

          Tusker killed by train in Uttarakhand’s Terai eastern forest division

          Tusker killed by train in Uttarakhand’s Terai eastern forest division

          A 25-year-old elephant tragically died after being hit by the Agra Fort Express train near Muktidham, a crucial elephant corridor in Uttarakhand. The incident occurred on the Lalkuan-Bareilly railway line, raising concerns about the enforcement of speed restrictions and wildlife protection measures. Forest officials are investigating the train's speed and potential violations of the Wild Life (Protection) Act.

          Telangana farmer mowed down with tractor, two arrested

          Telangana farmer mowed down with tractor, two arrested

          In Nizamabad's Chikli village, farmers Karam Naveen and Edagotti Prasad were arrested for the murder of Ryapani Chinna Gangaram. Naveen allegedly ran Gangaram over with a tractor during a panchayat convened to resolve a land dispute. Prasad is accused of abetting the crime due to his strained relationship with the victim and instigating Naveen.

          15-year-old boy found dead near SIDCUL area in Uttarakhand's Rudrapur

          15-year-old boy found dead near SIDCUL area in Uttarakhand's Rudrapur

          In Rudrapur, a class 7 student was discovered dead in a field near the SIDCUL industrial area. Devdutt Gangwar, the boy's father, dropped him off at school. However, the boy never attended class. Police suspect strangulation, pending a postmortem. This marks the second such incident in Rudrapur recently. Last week, another 15-year-old was allegedly killed after a scuffle.

          Who is Kilmar Abrego Garcia? Man mistakenly deported to Salvadoran prison

          Who is Kilmar Abrego Garcia? Man mistakenly deported to Salvadoran prison

          Kilmar Armando Abrego Garcia's case has ignited a legal and diplomatic battle involving immigration policies and gang affiliation claims. Despite a judge's order, Abrego Garcia was mistakenly deported to El Salvador and is now held in a maximum-security prison. The Trump administration's refusal to comply with a Supreme Court directive to bring him back has intensified the standoff.

          Woman, 20, shot dead in east Delhi, kin suspect ‘social media friend’

          Woman, 20, shot dead in east Delhi, kin suspect ‘social media friend’

          In Delhi, Sayra Parveen, a 20-year-old woman, was fatally shot in GTB Enclave. Her family reported she met someone she befriended online. Police identified a suspect and are investigating a possible link to a previous murder case. CCTV footage showed Parveen with a man before an argument. A local resident discovered the body and alerted the police. The police are investigating the case.

          Mother of 4, ‘lover’ found hanging from tree in UP

          Mother of 4, ‘lover’ found hanging from tree in UP

          In Uttar Pradesh's Bulandshahr, a 35-year-old married woman, Sapna Devi, and 25-year-old Manish Kumar were discovered deceased, hanging from a tree. Authorities found a suicide note indicating a relationship between them. Preliminary investigations suggest suicide, with autopsies underway. Both individuals resided in neighboring villages within the Kakod area. Family confrontation occurred weeks prior, adding complexity to the tragic event.

          RFK Jr.'s mixed message about the measles outbreaks draws criticism from health officials

          RFK Jr.'s mixed message about the measles outbreaks draws criticism from health officials

          Measles cases rose in the U.S. Public health officials noticed issues in the Trump administration's response. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s approach differed from past strategies. He received briefings differently. The American Academy of Pediatrics was not involved. Kennedy's vaccine messaging was unclear. Texas Governor Greg Abbott was quiet on vaccinations.

          China's Xi meets Malaysian leaders in diplomatic charm offensive

          China's Xi meets Malaysian leaders in diplomatic charm offensive

          President Xi Jinping's Southeast Asia tour, including a visit to Malaysia, aims to strengthen China's position as a reliable partner amid global trade tensions. Xi's visit emphasizes regional solidarity and economic cooperation, particularly in light of US tariffs impacting ASEAN nations. China seeks to promote stability and development, positioning itself as an alternative to protectionist measures.

          No need for BJP to topple Congress govt, says Kishan Reddy

          No need for BJP to topple Congress govt, says Kishan Reddy

          Telangana BJP president G Kishan Reddy refuted claims of plotting to destabilize the Congress government, emphasizing the party's focus on strengthening its base and serving the people. He dismissed alliances in Telangana, anticipating a direct contest with AIMIM in upcoming GHMC polls, while considering strategic support from BRS and Congress corporators in local elections.

          Shibu Soren makes way for Hemant as Jharkhand Mukti Morcha chief

          Shibu Soren makes way for Hemant as Jharkhand Mukti Morcha chief

          Shibu Soren, after 38 years, formally handed over the JMM leadership to his son Hemant at the party's 13th Mahadhiveshan. Shibu was elected as the party's "founding patron," while Hemant, previously executive president, became the fourth president. Hemant's leadership was instrumental in the party's recent assembly election victory and his handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.

          Taiwan reports Chinese military activity near its territory

          Taiwan reports Chinese military activity near its territory

          According to Taiwan's MND, 11 out of 17 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwestern Air Defence Identification Zone (ADIZ). This incident follows a recent pattern of escalated manoeuvres by China around Taiwan, sparking concerns over regional stability as Beijing continues to assert its claims over the island.

          YouTuber wife, lover kills husband in Haryana, dump body in drain

          YouTuber wife, lover kills husband in Haryana, dump body in drain

          In Haryana's Bhiwani district, a YouTuber named Ravina and her lover allegedly murdered her husband, Praveen, after he discovered their affair. They transported his body on a bike and dumped it in a drain. Ravina confessed to the crime after police reviewed CCTV footage showing her and a man with a body on a bike. Police are searching for the absconding lover, Suresh.

          Panel green-signals Brahmaputra tunnel; returns 2 projects in J&K citing deficiencies

          Panel green-signals Brahmaputra tunnel; returns 2 projects in J&K citing deficiencies

          An inter-ministerial panel has recommended the construction of India's longest under-river tunnel across the Brahmaputra in Assam, costing approximately Rs 14,900 crore. This project will significantly reduce travel time and enhance connectivity to northeastern states. However, the panel has deferred the proposal for two tunnels in Jammu and Kashmir due to high costs and the availability of alternative routes.

          Suruchi Singh stuns Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker for consecutive golds at ISSF World Cup

          Suruchi Singh stuns Olympic medallist Manu Bhaker for consecutive golds at ISSF World Cup

          India began their ISSF World Cup campaign in Lima impressively, securing medals across all categories on the first day. Suruchi Singh clinched gold in the Women’s 10m Air Pistol, with Manu Bhaker taking silver. Saurabh Chaudhary secured a bronze in the Men’s 10m Air Pistol, marking a successful return to individual ISSF medals after two years.

          IPL 2025: Mayank Yadav checks in, set to undergo fitness test

          IPL 2025: Mayank Yadav checks in, set to undergo fitness test

          Pace bowler Mayank Yadav has rejoined Lucknow Super Giants after recovering from back and toe injuries at the BCCI's Centre of Excellence. He will undergo fitness tests before potentially playing against Rajasthan Royals. LSG will proceed cautiously, given Yadav's history of stress fractures, aiming to strengthen their seam attack, currently led by Shardul Thakur.

          Doctors are urging BP patients to have 1 banana daily: 5 reasons to have this superfruit

          Doctors are urging BP patients to have 1 banana daily: 5 reasons to have this superfruit

          Doctors recommend daily banana consumption for individuals with high blood pressure due to their rich potassium content, which helps balance sodium levels and lower blood pressure. Bananas also provide soluble fiber, benefiting heart health by reducing cholesterol and stabilizing blood sugar. Additionally, they contain magnesium, promoting relaxed blood vessels and aiding in reducing water retention and bloating.

          Finance ministry considering 2 proposals to ease life of toll-paying commuters on National Highways

          Finance ministry considering 2 proposals to ease life of toll-paying commuters on National Highways

          The road transport ministry has proposed to Finance ministry toll exemptions for National Highways with less than four lanes and annual passes costing approximately Rs 3,000 for unlimited car travel. These initiatives aim to ease the financial burden on commuters. Exemptions primarily target publicly funded roads where collection costs outweigh revenue, while annual passes seek to provide relief without significantly impacting revenue from commercial vehicles.

          UK Supreme Court to rule on landmark legal challenge over legal definition of a woman

          UK Supreme Court to rule on landmark legal challenge over legal definition of a woman

          The UK Supreme Court is set to rule on a legal challenge concerning the definition of 'woman' under equality laws, a dispute between For Women Scotland and the Scottish government. The core of the case revolves around whether a transgender person with a gender recognition certificate should be legally regarded as a woman.

          Don't like a columnist's opinion? LA Times offers an AI-generated opposing viewpoint

          Don't like a columnist's opinion? LA Times offers an AI-generated opposing viewpoint

          The Los Angeles Times is facing internal turmoil over owner Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong's efforts to diversify its opinion pages. Soon-Shiong's initiative includes AI-generated "Insights" offering opposing viewpoints and a push for more conservative voices. These changes led to resignations from the editorial board and criticism that he's appeasing Donald Trump.

          Indian Railways conducts India’s 1st on-board ATM trial between Manmad & Mumbai

          Indian Railways conducts India’s 1st on-board ATM trial between Manmad & Mumbai

          Indian Railways successfully tested the country's first ATM on a train. The trial occurred on the Panchavati Express between Manmad and Mumbai. Passengers can now withdraw cash during their journey. The ATM is a collaboration with Bank of Maharashtra. It is available to passengers of both Panchavati Express and Mumbai–Hingoli Janshatabdi Express.